Report issues to authority first, don’t rush to social media, says KPDN Sarawak director

KUCHING (March 4): The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Sarawak has urged consumers to lodge official complaints with the department before sharing issues on social media.

KPDN Sarawak director Matthew Dominic Barin said while viral posts do occur, consumers should prioritise reporting directly to the authorities.

“Viral cases do happen. If something goes viral before it is reported, we are concerned that traders may hide evidence and related materials,” he said to the reporters after conducting the Ops Pantau at the Stutong Ramadan Bazaar here.

He encouraged the public to lodge complaints through the proper channels.

“As far as possible, we urge consumers to make official reports via our WhatsApp line at 019-848 8000,” he said.

Matthew Dominic added that the department responds promptly to viral cases.

“If something goes viral, we will take action within 24 hours. We are not prohibiting people from making matters viral, but please lodge a report with KPDN first.

“We will then deploy our team to conduct investigations,” he said.

He also clarified that cases involving spoiled food fall outside KPDN’s jurisdiction, as such matters are under food safety authorities.

“That is beyond our authority as it concerns food safety,” he said.

On the supply of goods ahead of Hari Raya Aidilfitri, he assured the public that the situation in Sarawak remains stable.

“There are no issues of supply shortage in Sarawak. All goods are stable,” he said.